Is hepatitis B virus transmission possible through sexual contact?

Dec 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Hepatitis B virus carriers may transmit the virus to others through sexual contact. Individuals who have not been infected with the hepatitis B virus should receive the hepatitis B vaccine in a timely manner to stimulate the body to produce protective antibodies, thereby effectively preventing infection. At the same time, when engaging in sexual activity with a hepatitis B virus carrier, safety measures such as using condoms should be taken to reduce the risk of viral transmission.

Generally, hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers may transmit the virus to others through sexual contact. A detailed analysis is as follows:

HBV carriers refer to individuals who have tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen for more than six months, yet exhibit no obvious symptoms or signs of liver disease and maintain relatively normal liver function. Although these carriers do not display apparent symptoms of liver disease, the hepatitis B virus in their bodies remains active and contagious. The primary transmission routes of HBV include mother-to-child transmission, bloodborne transmission, and sexual contact transmission. During sexual activity, without protective measures, the virus can be transmitted to a partner through bodily fluids such as semen and vaginal secretions.

For individuals who have not been infected with HBV, timely vaccination against hepatitis B is recommended to stimulate the body's production of protective antibodies, thereby effectively preventing HBV infection. Additionally, when engaging in sexual activity with an HBV carrier, protective measures such as using condoms should be taken to reduce the risk of viral transmission.

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What does it mean to be a hepatitis B virus carrier?

HBV carriers refer to individuals who have the hepatitis B virus present in their bodies but currently do not exhibit related symptoms. The virus typically exists during infancy or periods of weakened immunity and can persist long-term. However, when liver function tests are performed, the results usually appear normal, and there is generally little impact on health. Therefore, observation is recommended initially without special treatment, and medical treatment should be guided by a doctor if symptoms arise.

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Is the hepatitis B virus carrier negative or positive?

HBV carriers refer to individuals who have been infected with the hepatitis B virus but have not developed the disease. They may test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb), while tests for hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb), hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), and hepatitis B e antibody (HBeAb) may be either negative or positive.

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Do hepatitis B virus carriers with normal liver function need treatment?

Under normal circumstances, "hepatitis B virus" refers to the hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis B virus carriers with normal liver function generally do not require treatment. However, even if the liver function of hepatitis B virus carriers is normal, regular follow-up examinations at the hospital are still necessary. The purpose of follow-up is to detect signs of liver damage in a timely manner, so that appropriate treatment measures can be taken promptly.

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How often should hepatitis B virus carriers undergo check-ups?

HBV carriers refer to individuals who have been positive for hepatitis B surface antigen for more than six months, show no obvious symptoms or signs of hepatitis, and maintain normal liver function. If liver function remains normal, examinations are typically conducted every 6 to 12 months; however, if liver function is abnormal, examinations are recommended every 3 to 6 months. The core purpose of regular check-ups is to promptly detect any changes in the condition and avoid delays in treatment due to the absence of symptoms.